Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Hilton Head Island?
- 2 Does the City of Hilton Head Island Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Hilton Head Island?
- 4 How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Hilton Head Island?
- 5 Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Hilton Head Island?
- 6 What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Hilton Head Island?
- 7 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Hilton Head Island?
What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Hilton Head Island?
Over pruning palmetto trees is a common problem causing death and tree removal in Hilton Head Island. Usually, the first instinct is to trim off brown or browning palm fronds, especially in areas prone to high winds. The issue here is that palmettos reabsorb the nutrients of their browning leaves. Those nutrients then get distributed to the young leaves. If you trim the wrong fronds, your palmettos, which can grow up to 80 feet, may die from nutrient deficiencies. Trimming incorrectly can also cause narrowing of the top of the trunk, which increases the risk of falling during hurricanes.
Root rot is a common fungal problem affecting sweet gum trees in Hilton Head Island. This fungal infection can harm and kill trees of all ages. Younger trees are more vulnerable, but it is fast spreading and can infect multiple trees on your property. Root rot symptoms include thin trees, early fall-colored foliage, and hardened fungus growth on tree bark. It is best not to leave this disease unchecked, especially if other trees are on or near your property.
The emerald ash borer, named for its green color, is a destructive, exotic beetle. This wood-boring pest is now in 35 states, including South Carolina, and is responsible for killing hundreds of millions of ash trees across North America. The adult beetle does only minor damage by eating the tree’s foliage. It’s the emerald ash borer’s larvae that kill ash trees in Hilton Head Island. They will feed on the inner bark, which will disrupt water and nutrient transport through the tree. If you see holes in the bark or bark splitting, you may have an infestation. Sometimes the first sign is a thinning canopy.
Hurricanes regularly hit Hilton Head Island. With wind speeds from 75 to above 155 miles per hour, hurricanes can do many tree damage. There are some things you can do to protect your trees and reduce risk. First, keep up on regular maintenance. Properly trimmed trees are less likely to break due to less surface area for the wind to grab. Healthy trees are also able to withstand extreme weather because their roots and trunks are stronger. Another way to make sure your trees can make it through a hurricane is to get a check-up from our arborists. We know the most common problems that result in tree removal in Hilton Head Island.
Does the City of Hilton Head Island Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
If you need tree removal in Hilton Head Island, you must first submit an application for the tree. The regulations and ordinances are designed to keep trees in place, so you will need to prove a need before it can be removed. After applying, you will need to flag the tree so someone can come and inspect it. If the tree is found to be healthy and safe, you will not be able to remove the tree unless you get clearance from the Board of Zoning Appeals. If the tree is found to be diseased or dangerous, you will be permitted to remove it. The city will not help with the actual tree removal unless the tree affects public property, so you’re better off calling us.
Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Hilton Head Island?
Who’s responsible when a tree falls on Hilton Head Island? That depends on where the tree falls, who owns the tree, and who owns the property where the tree landed. The local municipal code can be a little complicated, so we will try to break things down.
If you’re a homeowner?
If you own a property in Hilton Head Island, and a tree from your property needs to be removed, you will likely be responsible for the cost of removing it. This is especially true if the tree is diseased because the tree poses a threat to other property or lives. However, if a tree falls on public property during a storm, your best bet is to call the city because they may see it as a public safety issue and take care of it. Before any tree can be removed, you will need to apply for removal. You could also let our professionals handle it. We know what steps to take to get permission for tree removal in Hilton Head Island.
If you’re a renter?
If you are a renter and need to deal with tree removal, you must call the property owner. This is because you are not allowed to damage another person’s tree on Hilton Head Island. If you had the tree removed, you could be liable for the cost of the tree or the estimated value to replace it. If a tree falls during a storm, you need to let your landlord know so that they can take the next steps with the city.
If you’re a landlord?
If you are the property owner and you have a fallen tree, you are responsible for removal costs in most situations. If you need a tree removed from your property that fell from your neighbor’s yard, it may be your insurance that handles the claim. Another thing to note here is that tree removal and pruning in Hilton Head Island require an application. There are specifics on the size and location, health, and species of the tree that need consideration before you start cutting. When in doubt, talk to our professionals.
If you’re a neighbor?
If you wake up to a loud thud and find your neighbor’s palmetto tree lying in your yard, try to relax. The first step is to make sure everyone is alright on both properties. The next step is to call and report the fallen tree to the City of Hilton Head Island, then contact your insurance. In this situation, they will know exactly what to do. Remember, in Hilton Head Island, you are responsible for your property, even if the tree was not there five yesterday. Most homeowner’s insurance will cover at least part of the cost for removal.
How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Hilton Head Island?
Sandy and loamy soil dominate most of Hilton Head Island. This type of soil is usually a mix of clay, sand, and silt, making it great for moisture retention. However, if the moisture is too high, you might start to see problems with the tree’s roots. If you suspect that the roots are beginning to rot or show signs of fungal growth, you may need to reduce watering or have the tree looked at. The worst drainage problems and excess moisture come after storms, like hurricanes that drop a lot of water in a short amount of time.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Hilton Head Island?
The average temperatures throughout the year in Hilton Head Island ranges between 42 to 89 degrees. Winter is considered mild and rarely drops below freezing. The summer months usually stay below 95 degrees, although the humidity can be quite high. In some cases, high humidity can cause excess moisture and an increased risk of fungal infections in trees.
Hurricanes, by far, bring the most destruction to Hilton Head Island and are responsible for many fallen trees. A big part of why the city is working hard to increase the canopy is for this very reason. The more trees there are in Hilton Head Island, the fewer will be destroyed during storms. This is because the root system works together to help keep trees from falling over. Trees also shield each other from the wind. One tree by itself is more susceptible to damage from fast winds than ten trees close together.
What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Hilton Head Island?
The City of Hilton Head Island has almost completed the overhead to underground power line project. Together with the power company, they are rerouting all power lines underground. Doing this will limit the amount of damage that extreme weather can do to the power supply. It will also prevent trees from falling on the lines, causing fires, and creating unsafe conditions for residents. If you see a tree, dead or alive, near one of the few power lines still above the ground, you should report the problem. The power company is responsible for keeping the lines clear for residents. They will also take care of necessary applications for removal.
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Hilton Head Island?
Removing a tree can be a dangerous job, and that can make it costly. Most homeowners in the area pay between $210 to $1,425 per tree. The price usually won’t cover the cost of stump removal or grinding. Here are some common factors that can increase the price of tree removal in Hilton Head Island:
Size and Height
It goes without saying that the bigger the tree is, the more you’ll end up paying to remove it in Hilton Head Island. Taller trees come with extra risk to our crew and surrounding property. This is because the homes and neighboring properties are often close together. A 60-foot tree could affect several houses if it falls during removal. Here is a rough estimate of what you may pay to remove a tree based on size:
- Average cost for 20-foot tree removal: $193 to $365
- Average cost for 40-foot tree removal: $395 to $780
- Average cost for 60-foot tree removal: $610 to $1120
- Average cost for 80-foot tree removal: $820 to $1465 or more
Another point about size is waste removal. The tree may need to be hauled away in multiple truckloads. If you are requesting firewood or chips from the tree, that may be an additional cost.
Tree Location
Most people don’t think about tree trimming and maintenance when they plant the tree. However, 30 years later, when a diseased 40-foot ash tree needs to be removed, location is everything. If the tree is easy to get to, it will cost less than one that backs up to a closed, narrow canal. If a crane needs to be rented for the day, that will increase the price. In some cases, a road will need to be closed off during the job.
Labor and Material
Some tree removal projects may take more of our team members. If someone needs to direct traffic while three of our specialists cut down the tree, you will pay more. It is best if you can plan for tree removal and maintenance in Hilton Head Island. Emergency service calls will always cost more.
